Major League Soccer (MLS) has reached its midway point, offering a moment to reflect on the successes and failures of its teams and players. As the league pauses for the Leagues Cup, the FYM News takes a deep dive into the standout performers and underachievers of the 2025 season. From unexpected triumphs to disappointing campaigns, this analysis highlights the key storylines shaping MLS as it heads towards the playoffs.
This article examines the winners and losers across the league, with a particular focus on San Diego FC’s (SDFC) debut season. We’ll explore why some teams are exceeding expectations while others are falling short. Ultimately, the goal is to provide insights into the current state of MLS and what to expect in the second half of the season.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s covered:
- The surprising success of San Diego FC.
- Lionel Messi’s continued impact on Inter Miami.
- Teams like LA Galaxy and Toronto FC struggling to find their form.
- The overall health and future direction of MLS.
MLS at the Break: A Mid-Season Overview
As MLS hits its mid-season break for the Leagues Cup, the league finds itself at a fascinating juncture. While celebrating its 30th season, the milestone feels somewhat understated, overshadowed by the daily excitement on the pitch. Despite this, the league maintains a strong base, drawing an average of 21,747 fans per game. These dedicated fans are fueling a growing demand for a higher level of play, especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon. The current plateau in overall performance raises questions about the balance between foreign imports and domestic talent, particularly the defensive vulnerabilities seen across many teams.
Off the field, Lionel Messi’s influence continues to drive attendance and viewership. Don Garber’s update on Apple TV numbers reveals an average of 120,000 unique viewers per game, totaling 1.8 million across a typical weekend. While these numbers are promising, they still represent a modest reach compared to the global potential of Apple TV. Maintaining and growing consistent viewership remains a key challenge for MLS as it seeks to broaden its appeal.
Key topics to consider include:
- The impact of star players like Lionel Messi on league popularity.
- The balance between offensive and defensive talent on MLS rosters.
- Strategies for increasing viewership and fan engagement.
MLS 2025: Who Are the Winners?
Several teams and players have emerged as clear winners in the first half of the 2025 MLS season. FC Cincinnati stands out as a top contender, led by the impressive duo of Evander and Kévin Denkey. Their balanced squad and strategic play under Pat Noonan make them a serious threat for the MLS Cup.
Lionel Messi’s resurgence cannot be ignored. With 18 goals in 18 games, including five consecutive braces before the All-Star break, Messi has been instrumental in Inter Miami’s playoff push. His exceptional form underscores his ongoing impact on the league.
Andy Najar’s contributions to Nashville SC have also been noteworthy, providing 10 assists and becoming a key player under B.J. Callaghan. Additionally, Diego Luna’s outstanding performance for Real Salt Lake, scoring eight goals in 19 games, highlights his potential in a league often dominated by foreign talent.
San Diego FC: A Surprising Success Story
One of the biggest surprises of the season has been the outstanding debut of San Diego FC (SDFC). Led by head coach Mikey Varas, who silenced early doubters, SDFC sits atop the Western Conference and is only four points behind in the Supporters’ Shield race. Their success is a testament to Varas’s leadership and the team’s ability to quickly adapt and compete at a high level.
San Diego FC’s impressive start can be attributed to:
- Effective team management and strategy by Mikey Varas.
- Strong team cohesion and adaptability.
- Consistent performance across the squad.
As they continue their inaugural season, SDFC will aim to maintain their momentum and solidify their position as a top contender in the Western Conference. Their journey is one of the most compelling stories in MLS this year.
Philadelphia Union’s Continued Excellence
Despite a change in leadership with Jim Curtin’s departure, the Philadelphia Union have maintained their high standards under Bradley Carnell. The Union remain a well-organized and competitive team, showcasing the strength of their long-term project. Their consistency and resilience make them a team to watch as they pursue an MLS Cup.
Key factors in Philadelphia Union’s success:
- Strong organizational structure and management.
- Consistent performance despite coaching changes.
- Resilience and adaptability on the field.
Columbus Crew: The Most Exciting Team in MLS
The Columbus Crew, led by coach Wilfried Nancy, continue to captivate fans with their exciting brand of soccer. With Diego Rossi and Jacen Russell-Rowe spearheading the attack, the Crew have established themselves as legitimate MLS Cup contenders. Their dynamic play and strategic prowess make them one of the most thrilling teams to watch.
The key elements that define the Columbus Crew:
- Dynamic and thrilling offensive play.
- Strategic leadership by coach Wilfried Nancy.
- Talented players like Diego Rossi and Jacen Russell-Rowe.
MLS 2025: Who Are the Losers?
On the other end of the spectrum, several teams have struggled to meet expectations. The defending champions, LA Galaxy, have been plagued by tight salary cap restrictions and injuries, leading to a historically poor start. Similarly, D.C. United, once a powerhouse, continue to struggle with a revolving door of coaches and players.
Atlanta United FC, despite heavy offseason spending, have underperformed, with Miguel Almirón failing to regain his previous form. The Chicago Fire, under Gregg Berhalter, have also delivered only mediocrity, leaving fans with little to cheer about.
Toronto FC, despite signing big-name players like Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi, find themselves back at square one, highlighting the challenges of building a competitive team.
MLS: The League Itself at a Crossroads
MLS, as a whole, faces challenges in solidifying its position among the top global leagues. A disappointing performance at the Club World Cup exposed vulnerabilities in roster rules. Despite growing attendance and individual talent, the league is often seen as insulated, prioritizing events like the Leagues Cup over international credibility.
To achieve true validation, MLS needs to succeed in competitions like the CONCACAF Champions Cup and, potentially, the Copa Libertadores. The league’s future depends on bridging the gap between being a commercially successful entertainment product and a genuinely competitive, top-tier soccer league.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways from the MLS Mid-Season Break
As MLS pauses for the Leagues Cup, it’s clear that the 2025 season has been full of surprises. Teams like San Diego FC and FC Cincinnati have exceeded expectations, while others, like LA Galaxy and Atlanta United, have struggled to find their footing. Lionel Messi’s continued impact underscores the importance of star power, but the league also faces challenges in solidifying its international reputation.
Here are the key takeaways:
- San Diego FC’s surprising debut highlights the potential for new teams to make an immediate impact.
- Lionel Messi remains a significant draw, but the league needs broader success to sustain growth.
- Several teams face challenges in balancing talent, strategy, and organizational stability.
- MLS needs to focus on international competitions to enhance its global credibility.
Looking ahead, the second half of the season promises to be filled with intense competition and compelling storylines. The performance of these teams will not only determine who lifts the MLS Cup but also shape the future direction of the league. As MLS continues to evolve, its ability to address these challenges and capitalize on its opportunities will define its long-term success.
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